(Vancouver, BC April 20, 2012) On April 18, 2012, the Musqueam Indian Band issued an open letter to BC Premier Christy Clark and Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson stating their position on the proposed condominium project on the site of their ancient village, ćəsna?əm, and burial areas. The Musqueam believe the BC Government and the City Council have placed the commercial interest of the developers above “the just and right assertion of the Musqueam that this site not be developed.”

“The Union of BC Indian Chiefs fully supports the Musqueam and we share the deep concerns of Chief Ernest Campbell, Council and the Nation that the interests of a third party have been granted protection rather than to protect the history and culture of the Musqueam,” said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs. “The fact that the BC Government and the City of Vancouver have provided permits to build condos on ancestral graves is horrifically offensive and unfathomable.”

Grand Chief Phillip continued “The Musqueam is offering to work with the BC Government and the City of Vancouver towards an agreement where there will be a land swap with the developers. Furthermore they are offering to work with the BC Government and the City to create an interpretive park open to all. It is a win-win solution. To ignore the Musqueam’s offer, is to challenge not only the determination of Musqueam’s position to protect the entire site but a challenge to all First Nations in BC.”